Methods and apparatus for supplying power to a printer

ABSTRACT

An example disclosed method includes providing power transmissions from a power storage unit to a power converter of a printing device, the power converter to supply an available amount of power to a print mechanism, the print mechanism having separately controllable print elements; determining a required amount of power for an upcoming print operation that involves energizing the print elements, the print elements including a first group of the print elements and a second group of the print elements; when the required amount of power is less than or equal to the available amount of power, performing the print operation by simultaneously energizing the print elements; and when the required amount of power is greater than the available amount of power, performing the print operation by alternately energizing the first group of the print elements at first times and the second group of the print elements at second times.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This patent arises from a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/880,026, filed Oct. 9, 2015, now U.S. Pat. No. 9,747,062, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/082,098, filed Nov. 15, 2013, now U.S. Pat. No. 9,189,184, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/336,089, filed Jan. 20, 2006, now U.S. Pat. No. 8,587,825, which claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/645,294, filed Jan. 20, 2005, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to printers and, more specifically to devices and methods that provide for power to be supplied to a printer and/or to optimize a printing operation according to the power required for the operation.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Local area networks (LANs) have grown tremendously in the last few years and, leading the way in the growth of LANs is the Ethernet type LAN. Ethernet was first developed in the mid 1970's. By the early 1980's, the Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers (IEEE) developed a standard for Ethernet designated as IEEE 802.3, which has been universally adopted by the network industry. From the early 1980's until the present, the IEEE 802.3 standard has undergone many revisions, including the addition of new features such as switched Ethernet, Fast Ethernet, Gigabit Ethernet and the like. Recently, the IEEE has adopted a new addition to the IEEE 802.3 standard, 802.3af, related to the transmitting of power over Ethernet transmission lines.

Specifically, the 802.3af addition, referred to commonly as “Power over Ethernet”, involves delivering 48 volts of AC power over unshielded twisted-pair wiring. Power over Ethernet provides for power to be supplied over existing Ethernet infrastructure; i.e., existing cable, horizontal and patch cables, patch-panels, outlets; and connecting hardware are implemented.

Traditionally, network devices, such as IP phones, wireless LAN access points, laptop computers and the like, have required both an Ethernet connection and an AC electrical connection. Given the increasing number of LAN devices in corporations, wiring AC connections for each of them is a costly task. The 802.3af specification eliminates the need for additional outlets and the labor cost incurred from contracting electricians to install them.

Additionally, Power over Ethernet technology supports a point-to-multipoint power distribution architecture, parallel to the data network. This functionality allows network managers to implement a single uninterruptible power supply (UPS) at the network core to back up multiple scattered devices on the LAN.

Power over Ethernet provides for the power to be carried on two wire pairs, to comply with safety standards and existing cable limitations. 802.3af power sourcing equipment contains a detection mechanism to prevent sending power to noncompliant devices. Only terminals that present an authenticated Power over Ethernet signature will receive power, preventing damage to other equipment.

The 802.3af specification defines the current delivered to each node in the network as limited to 350 milliamps. The total amount of continuous power that can be delivered to each node, taking into account power loss over the cable, is 12.95 watts. For typical networked devices, such as IP telephones or wireless LAN access points, this is sufficient power because these types of devices consume between 3 and 10 watts of power.

However, other devices, and specifically LAN printers, typically require higher power. For example, LAN printers require additional power to be able to print at high speeds and/or to print images having extensive data. In this instance the total amount of continuous power that is supplied to the printer by the Ethernet connection is insufficient to support high speed printer and/or printing of data intensive materials.

Additionally, other networked devices, specifically LAN printers, typically rely on conventional AC electrical connections as a means of supplying power. However, outages in the AC electrical power routinely occur and interrupt the printing process. In addition to impeding the print process, power outages may cause the loss of data and configurations in the printer control and image generating electronics. The loss of such data and configurations means that once the AC electrical power is restored, the printing process can not resume until the data and configurations are reset in the printer control and image generating electronic. Such resetting of data and configurations further delays printings; thus, adding unnecessary inefficiency to the printing operation.

Some computer peripheral devices, which can be networked or non-networked, are configured to be powered via a Universal Serial Bus (USB), by which the devices can also receive commands or other communications. Standard USB (e.g., the USB 1.1 and USB 2.0 protocols) can be used to power devices but generally provides only low power, typically a maximum power of about 2.5 watts. Devices that require more than about 2.5 watts during operation, such as typical printers, are therefore not powered by standard USB. Instead, such devices are powered by a separate power supply or are configured for a different USB protocol such as powered USB (or “USB PlusPower”), which can typically provide no more than about 48 watts continuously (at 24 volts DC) per connector. A separate power supply typically requires a conventional AC electrical connection, which is subject to possible outages as described above. While a powered USB connection may avoid reliance on a separate conventional AC electrical connection, a powered USB connection may be unavailable in some cases, e.g., where the device is to be connected to a computer that does not have an available powered USB connection.

Therefore a need exists to develop LAN printers, specifically Ethernet LAN printers that are able to benefit from Power over Ethernet specifications, and/or printers that can benefit from power provided via other powered interfaces such as a Universal Serial Bus. The desired printers and methods should provide for adequate power to be supplied to the printer to support high speed printing and/or the printing of data intensive materials. Additionally, the desired printers and methods should provide for interface power such as Ethernet or USB power to sustain printing operations in instances in which outages occur in the main AC electrical connection. In addition to providing back-up power for the print operations, the interface power should provide back-up power to the data and configuration settings in the printer control and image generating electronics, insuring that such information is not lost during an AC power outage. Further, the printers should be adaptable for controlling a printing operation according to the power required for the operation, where the power is supplied by a powered interface or by another power supply.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Having thus described the invention in general terms, reference will now be made to the accompanying drawings, which are not necessarily drawn to scale, and wherein:

FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an interface powered printer device, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram of an alternate interface powered printer device, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram of yet another interface powered printer device, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 4 a flow diagram of a method for providing Ethernet power to a printer device, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 4A a flow diagram of a method for providing USB power to a printer device, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 5 is flow diagram of an alternate method for providing Ethernet power to a printer device, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 5A is flow diagram of an alternate method for providing USB power to a printer device, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 6 is a block diagram of a printhead of an Ethernet or USB powered printer device, in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 7 is a block diagram of a printer device having a controller configured to adjust the speed of the printer according to the power required for a printing operation, in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The present inventions now will be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which some, but not all embodiments of the invention are shown. Indeed, these inventions may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein; rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will satisfy applicable legal requirements. Like numbers refer to like elements throughout.

The present invention provides for interface powered printing devices. In particular, the present invention provides for interface powered printers and methods of providing interface power to printers. For example, the printers can be powered by an Ethernet, Universal Serial Bus (USB), or other powered interfaces. While Ethernet and USB interfaces are described throughout this application, it is understood that other powered interfaces can also be used, including some interfaces that have not been developed at this time, such as powered IEEE1284 (parallel) or powered Firewire interfaces.

The methods and devices support high speed printing and/or data intensive printing. Such high-speed and/or data intensive printing operations can be Ethernet or USB powered by providing for an energy or power storage unit within the printer device that is able to provide for necessary energy bursts to support such higher powered processes. In addition, the present invention provides for devices and methods that allow for printers to operate with primary power provided by conventional power mains and for back-up or secondary power to be supplied by Ethernet or USB power. Additionally, the invention provides for Ethernet or USB powering, both primary and back-up, of the data and configuration settings in the printer control and image generating electronics. In the back-up power mode, the Ethernet or USB power insures that data and configurations are not lost during periods of main power outage.

An embodiment of the present invention is defined by a printing device capable of obtaining power from an Ethernet network transmission line or a USB connection. The device includes a power and data interface in communication with a powered Ethernet communication port or USB communication port that separates the data transmission in the Ethernet or USB communication from the power transmission, a power converter in communication with the power and data interface, a printer control and image generating circuit in data communication with the interface and in electrical communication with the power converter, and a print mechanism in data communication with the printer control and image generating circuit that receives print control and image data from the circuit. In operation the power converter receives the power transmission from the interface and converts the signal to a supply voltage, which in turn is provided to the print control and image generating circuit. The power that is supplied to the print control and image generating circuit from the Ethernet network transmission line or USB connection may be the primary electrical source or it may provide for the back-up electrical source.

In specific embodiments the power converter may be in direct electrical communication with the print mechanism and printhead, collectively referred to herein as the print mechanism. Typically, since the amount of direct power from the Ethernet or USB supply source is limited, direct electrical connection between the power converter and the print mechanism is limited to printers having low print speeds and limited print data. In such embodiments the power that is supplied to the print mechanism from the Ethernet network transmission line or USB connection may be the primary electrical source or it may provide for the back-up electrical source.

Additionally, the printing device described above may include an energy storage unit in electrical communication with the print mechanism and an energy storage controller in electrical communication with the power converter and the energy storage unit. The energy storage unit and associated controller is typically required if the print mechanism performs high speed and/or data intensive printing and Ethernet or USB powering of the print operation is desired. The energy storage controller acts as an energy storage unit charger, in that, it receives supply voltage from the power converter and provides the supply voltage to the energy storage unit. In operation, the energy storage unit, typically a battery or the like, generally is charged during non-printing periods and provides for energy bursts necessary to provide power to the print mechanism. In embodiments of the invention in which an energy storage unit and associated storage controller are present to provide power to the print mechanism, the power that is supplied to the print mechanism may come primarily from the energy storage unit or the energy storage unit may be relied upon for back-up power. In embodiments having an energy storage unit and associated controller it may be necessary to include an additional power converter that is in electrical communication with the energy storage unit and the print mechanism. The additional power converter may be required to convert the energy storage voltage to the necessary print mechanism operating voltage. Alternatively, it may be possible to forego the additional power converter in embodiments in which the primary power converter is compatible with the requirements of the print mechanism.

In addition, the printing device described above may include an Alternating Current-Direct Current (AC-DC) converter that is in electrical communication with an electrical transmission line and the power converter. In such embodiments, the electrical transmission line (i.e., the power mains), typically provides the primary power to the printer control and image generating circuitry and/or the printing mechanism. In one specific embodiment the electrical transmission line provides the only power source for the print mechanism and the primary power source for the printer control and image generating circuitry, with the Ethernet or USB supplied power acting as the back-up power for the printer control and image generating circuitry. In embodiments having an AC-DC converter it may be necessary to include an additional power converter that is in electrical communication with the AC-DC converter and the print mechanism. The additional power converter may be required to convert the AC-DC converter voltage to the necessary print mechanism operating voltage. Alternatively, it may be possible to forego the additional power converter in embodiments in which the primary power converter is compatible with the requirements of the print mechanism.

Another embodiment of the present invention is defined by a printing device capable of obtaining power from an Ethernet network transmission line or USB connection. In this embodiment the printing device includes a power and data interface in communication with a powered Ethernet or USB communication port that separates data transmission from power transmission, a power converter in communication with the power and data interface, an energy storage controller in electrical communication with the first power converter, a power storage unit in electrical communication with the energy storage controller, and a print mechanism in electrical communication with the energy storage unit that receives electrical power from the energy storage unit. As such, the print mechanism may be solely powered by the voltage supplied from the energy storage unit or the voltage supplied by the energy storage unit may serve as back-up power for the print mechanism.

The printing device of this alternate embodiment may also include an additional power converter that is in electrical communication with the energy storage unit and the print mechanism. The additional power converter may be required to convert the energy storage voltage to the necessary print mechanism operating voltage. Alternatively, it may be possible to forego the additional power converter in embodiments in which the primary power converter is compatible with the requirements of the print mechanism.

Additionally, the device may include an optional printer control and image generating circuit in data communication with the interface and in electrical communication with the power converter. In such embodiments the circuit may be powered directly from the Ethernet powered transmission line or USB connection, from the energy storage unit or from a conventional AC electrical transmission line.

The invention is also embodied in a printing device capable of obtaining power from an Ethernet network transmission line or USB connection. In this alternate embodiment the printing device includes a power and data interface in communication with a powered Ethernet or USB communication port that separates data transmission from power transmission, a first power converter in communication with the power and data interface and a printer control and image generating circuit in data communication with the interface and in electrical communication with the power converter. The device also includes an AC-DC converter in electrical communication with an electrical transmission line and in electrical communication with the first power converter and a print mechanism in data communication with the printer control and image generating circuit and in electrical communication with the AC-DC converter. In this embodiment the electrical transmission line typically provides the primary power to the printer control and image generating circuitry, and the Ethernet network transmission line or USB connection typically provides secondary power to the printer control and image generating circuitry. Additionally, the printer device of this embodiment may include an additional power converter in electrical communication with the AC-DC converter and the print mechanism. Similar to the additional power converter in the previously described embodiments, the additional power converter may be required to convert the energy storage voltage to the necessary print mechanism operating voltage. Alternatively, it may be possible to forego the additional power converter in embodiments in which the primary power converter is compatible with the requirements of the print mechanism.

The invention is also embodied in various methods for providing Ethernet or USB power to at least a portion of a printer device. One method includes the steps of receiving, at a printer device, an Ethernet network signal or USB signal having a voltage component, converting the voltage component of the Ethernet network signal or USB signal to a supply voltage, and providing operating power to a printer control and image generating circuit in the form of the supply voltage. The method may additionally include the step of segregating the voltage component from a data component of the Ethernet network signal or USB signal. The step of providing operating power to a printer control and image generating circuit in the form of the supply voltage may further be defined as providing the sole operating power to the circuit or it may be defined as providing back-up power to the circuit. The method may also include the step of providing operating power to a print mechanism in the form of the supply voltage. The step of providing operating power to the print mechanism in the form of the supply voltage may further be defined as providing the sole operating power to the print mechanism or it may be defined as providing back-up power to the print mechanism.

In an alternate embodiment, a method for providing Ethernet or USB power to at least a portion of a printer device is defined. The method includes the steps of receiving, at a printer device, an Ethernet network signal or USB signal having a voltage component, converting the voltage component of the Ethernet network signal or USB signal to a supply voltage, providing the supply voltage to an energy storage controller, storing the supply voltage at an energy storage unit, and providing operating power to a print mechanism in the form of supply voltage stored at the energy storage unit. The step of providing operating power to a print mechanism in the form of supply voltage stored at the energy storage unit may further including providing sole operating power to the print mechanism in the form of supply voltage stored at the energy storage unit or providing back-up operating power to the print mechanism in the form of supply voltage stored at the energy storage unit. As such the present invention provides for novel printing devices and methods for providing power to a printer using Ethernet or USB power. In particular, the methods and devices support high speed printing and/or data intensive printing by providing for an energy storage unit within the printer device that is able to provide for the necessary high powered energy bursts to support such higher powered processes. In addition, the present invention provides for devices and methods that allow for printers to operate with primary power provided by conventional power mains and for back-up or secondary power to be supplied by Ethernet or USB power. Additionally, the invention provides for Ethernet or USB powering, both primary and back-up, of the data and configuration settings in the printer control and image generating electronics. In the back-up power mode, the Ethernet or USB power insures that data and configurations are not lost during periods of main power outage. Thus, the present invention provides for alternate means of powering a networked printer and for means of providing back-up power to the printer during instances of power outages.

As such the present invention provides for novel printing devices and methods for providing power to a printer using Ethernet or USB power. In particular, the methods and devices support high speed printing and/or data intensive printing by providing for a power storage unit within the printer device that is able to provide for the necessary high powered energy bursts to support such higher powered processes. In addition, the present invention provides for devices and methods that allow for printers to operate with primary power provided by conventional power mains and for back-up or secondary power to be supplied by Ethernet or USB power. Additionally, the invention provides for Ethernet or USB powering, both primary and back-up, of the data and configuration settings in the printer control and image generating electronics. In the back-up power mode, the Ethernet or USB power insures that data and configurations are not lost during periods of main power outage. Thus, the present invention provides for alternate means of powering a networked printer and for means of providing back-up power to the printer during instances of power outages.

The present invention provides for Ethernet-powered or Universal Serial Bus (USB)-powered printing devices and methods for providing Ethernet or USB power to printing devices. Printing devices, such as thermal transfer (TT) printers, label printers and the like typically operate at high-speed and provide for data-intensive printing. As such, these printer devices require high power to operate. Current direct supply Ethernet power does not provide for sufficient power to operate such printing devices. Similarly, standard USB provides a maximum of about 2.5 watts, which is typically less than the maximum power required during operation of such devices. The present invention addresses this problem in one embodiment by implementing a power storage unit that stores requisite power, which is then supplied to the printing mechanism and printhead in high powered bursts. Additionally, since networked printers are provided print control and image generating data via an Ethernet connection, a need exists to ensure that this data is maintained even in the event of a conventional power outage. Thus the present invention provides for printing devices and methods for providing back-up power, in the form of Ethernet power, to the print control circuitry and/or the printing mechanism.

FIG. 1 illustrates a block diagram of a printer device having interface power capabilities, such as Ethernet or USB power capabilities, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. In this embodiment of the invention, power to the print control circuitry and the print mechanism is supplied solely by the interface power, e.g., Ethernet or USB power. The printer device 10 can include any suitable printing device having an appropriate connection, such as an Ethernet network connection or USB connection. Typically, such printer devices include, but are not limited to, label printers, smart label printers, TT printers, and the like. The term “smart” can refer to a printer that is configured to use a page description language (PDL) such as Zebra Programming Language (ZPL) and/or a printer that can be adapted for printing and/or encoding RFID-equipped labels. The printer device includes an interface port, such as a powered Ethernet communication port or USB communication port 20 that is in communication with a transmission line, such as an Ethernet transmission line or a USB connection. In the case of an Ethernet powered device, the powered Ethernet port 20 can provide for an authenticated Power over Ethernet signature that informs the network that the printer device is equipped to receive power transmissions over the Ethernet line. Currently, the powered Ethernet port is compliant with IEEE standard 802.3af, which defines the requirements for Power over Ethernet. However, network standards may change in the future and therefore, compliance with the 802.3af standard may not be required to implement the devices and methods of the present invention. Similarly, in the case of other powered interfaces, the port 20 can provide for a signature that indicates that the printer device is equipped to receive power transmissions over the connection. In some cases, however, such a signature may not be required. For example, the current standard for powered USB (“USB PlusPower”), provides for a special connector that provides power transmission over dedicated wires rather than on the same wires as the signal, so a signature would typically not be required in that case.

The interface port shown in FIG. 1 is a powered Ethernet communication port or USB communication port 20 that is in communication with power and data interface 30. In the illustrated embodiment, the communication between the port and the interface is conducted via cable 22, typically a twisted pair cable that provides for power and data transmissions. However, other means of Ethernet or USB communication may be established between the port and the interface without departing from the inventive concepts herein disclosed. The power and data interface is responsible for separating the power and data components of the Ethernet or USB communication into respective components. The data component of the Ethernet or USB communication is communicated from the interface to the printer control and image generating circuitry 40, which is in data communication with the circuitry. The printer control and image generating circuitry uses the information provided via the Ethernet network or USB connection, as well as information provided by other sources, including the device user, the print image and the like, to provide requisite print data, controls and feedback to the print mechanism 50, which is in data communication with the circuitry. The print mechanism is assumed to include the printhead, which is not depicted in FIG. 1. An exemplary printhead is illustrated in FIG. 6.

The power component of the Ethernet or USB communication is communicated from the interface to power converter 60, which is in electrical communication with the interface. The power converter converts the power in the Ethernet or USB transmission to the requisite supply voltage for the printer control and image generating circuitry 40. Once converted the regulated voltage is communicated from the converter to the circuitry and supplies the power necessary to operate the print control and image generating circuitry. An Alternating Current-Direct Current (AC-DC) converter can be provided, e.g., in either the communication with power and data interface 30 or in the power converter 60 to convert the Ethernet power (typically 48 volts AC) to the power required by the printer (typically about 20-24 volts DC).

In addition to supplying the power to the circuitry, the power converter is also in electrical communication with power storage controller 70. The storage controller, otherwise commonly referred to as a battery charger, is in communication with power storage unit 80, otherwise commonly referred to as a battery. The storage controller is responsible for managing the voltage that is supplied to the power storage unit and, as such, provides voltage to the storage unit. The storage unit typically is charged during non-printing periods. The power storage unit provides for accumulation of power, such that higher powered energy bursts can be communicated to the print mechanism 50 to support high speed printing and/or data-intensive printing. An additional optional power converter 90 may be implemented to convert the power storage voltage to the operating voltage of the print mechanism. In such embodiments, the optional power converter can be in electrical communication with the power storage unit 80 and the print mechanism 50. The additional power converter is not required if the print mechanism is capable of operating at power storage unit voltage. In an alternate embodiment, it may be possible to combine the functionality of power converter 60 and power converter 90 into a single power converter unit if the print mechanism requirements are compatible.

In an alternate embodiment, the storage controller 70 and the power storage unit 80 may be excluded if the direct power from the Ethernet or USB power transmission is sufficient to support the requirements of the printing process. Typically, the storage controller and power storage units are optional if the printing device is limited to low speed print operations and printing of images having limited data. In such embodiments, the print mechanism can be in direct electrical communication with a power converter, eliminating the need to accumulate and store power for higher powered print processing.

FIG. 2 illustrates a block diagram of a printer device having interface power capabilities, such as Ethernet or USB power capabilities, in accordance with an alternate embodiment of the present invention. In this embodiment of the invention, power to the print mechanism and primary power to the print control circuitry is supplied by conventional power mains and back-up power to the print control circuitry is supplied by the interface power, e.g., Ethernet or USB power. Similar to the FIG. 1 embodiment, the printer device 10 includes any suitable printing device having an appropriate interface connection, such as an Ethernet network connection or USB connection. Typically, such printer devices include, but are not limited to, label printers, smart label printers (i.e., printers configured to use a page description language (PDL) and/or printers adapted for printing and/or encoding RFID-equipped labels), TT printers, and the like. The printer device includes a powered interface port, such as a powered Ethernet communication port or USB communication port 20 that is in communication with an Ethernet transmission line or a USB connection.

The powered Ethernet communication port or USB communication port 20 is in communication with power and data interface 30. In the illustrated embodiment, the communication between the port and the interface is conducted via cable 22, typically a twisted pair cable that provides for power and data transmissions. However, other means of Ethernet or USB communication may be established between the port and the interface without departing from the inventive concepts herein disclosed. The power and data interface is responsible for separating the power and data components of the Ethernet or USB communication into respective components. The data component of the Ethernet or USB communication is communicated from the interface to the printer control and image generating circuitry 40, which is in data communication with the circuitry. The printer control and image generating circuitry uses the information provided via the Ethernet network or USB connection, as well as information provided by other sources, including the device user, the print image and the like, to provide requisite print data, controls and feedback to the print mechanism 50, which is in data communication with the circuitry.

The power component of the Ethernet or USB communication is communicated from the interface to power converter 60, which is in electrical communication with the interface. The power converter converts the power in the Ethernet or USB transmission to the requisite supply voltage for the printer control and image generating circuitry 40. This power can be relied upon as back-up power in the instance in which a power outage occurs across the power mains transmission line.

The FIG. 2 embodiment of the invention also includes an Alternating Current-Direct Current (AC-DC) converter 100 that is in electrical communication with a power mains electrical transmission line. As previously noted in this embodiment of the invention the power mains is responsible for providing sole power to the print mechanism and primary power to the print control mechanism; use of Ethernet or USB power is limited to back-up power for the print control circuitry. The AC-DC converter receives the AC electrical signal from the power mains line and converts the signal to a direct current signal. The AC-DC converter is in electrical communication with power converters 60 and 90, such that the DC signal is converted to requisite operating voltages for print control circuitry 40 and the print mechanism 50, respectively. Alternatively, it may be possible to configure the printer device with a single power converter if the output voltage of the converter is compatible with both the print control circuitry and the print mechanism.

FIG. 3 illustrates a block diagram of a printer device having interface power capabilities, such as Ethernet or USB power capabilities, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. In this embodiment of the invention, primary power is supplied to the print control circuitry and the print mechanism via power mains and back-up power is supplied to the print control circuitry and the print mechanism via interface power, e.g., Ethernet or USB power. The printer device 10 includes any suitable printing device having an appropriate connection, such as an Ethernet network connection or USB connection. Similar to the FIGS. 1 and 2 embodiments, such printer devices include, but are not limited to, label printers, smart label printers (i.e., printers configured to use a page description language (PDL), TT printers, and the like. The printer device includes a powered communication port such as an Ethernet communication port or USB communication port 20 that is in communication with an Ethernet transmission line or USB connection.

The powered Ethernet communication port or USB communication port 20 is in communication with power and data interface 30. The power and data interface is responsible for separating the power and data components of the Ethernet or USB communication into respective components. The data component of the Ethernet or USB communication is communicated from the interface to the printer control and image generating circuitry 40, which is in data communication with the circuitry. The printer control and image generating circuitry uses the information provided via the Ethernet network or USB connection, as well as information provided by other sources, including the device user, the print image and the like, to provide requisite print data, controls and feedback to the print mechanism 50, which is in data communication with the circuitry.

The power component of the Ethernet or USB communication is communicated from the interface to power converter 60, which is in electrical communication with the interface. The power converter converts the power in the Ethernet or USB transmission to the requisite supply voltage for the printer control and image generating circuitry 40. This power can be relied upon as back-up power in the instance in which a power outage occurs across the power mains transmission line.

The FIG. 3 embodiment of the invention includes an Alternating Current-Direct Current (AC-DC) converter 100 that is in electrical communication with a power mains electrical transmission line. As previously noted in this embodiment of the invention the power mains is responsible for providing primary power to the print mechanism and the print control mechanism; use of Ethernet or USB power is limited to back-up power for the print control circuitry and the print mechanism. The AC-DC converter receives the AC electrical signal from the power mains line and converts the signal to a direct current signal. The AC-DC converter is in electrical communication with power converter 60, such that the DC signal is converted to requisite operating voltages for print control circuitry. Alternatively, although not depicted in FIG. 3, the AC-DC converter may be in direct electrical communication with power converter 90.

In addition to supplying the power to the circuitry, power converter 60 is also in electrical communication with power storage controller 70. The storage controller, otherwise commonly referred to as a battery charger, is in communication with power storage unit 80, otherwise commonly referred to as a battery. The storage controller is responsible for managing the voltage that is supplied to the power storage unit and, as such, provides voltage to the storage unit. The storage unit typically is charged during non-printing periods. The power storage unit provides for accumulation of power, such that higher powered energy bursts can be communicated to the print mechanism 50 to support high speed printing and/or data-intensive printing. An additional optional power converter 90 may be implemented to convert the power storage voltage to the operating voltage of the print mechanism. In such embodiments, the optional power converter can be in electrical communication with the power storage unit 80 and the print mechanism 50. The additional power converter is not required if the print mechanism is capable of operating at power storage unit voltage. In an alternate embodiment, it may be possible for power converter 60 to convert power for the power storage unit if the print mechanism voltage requirements are compatible with the output voltage of power converter 60.

For example, if the power and data interface 30 is connected to a USB communication port 20, the power and data interface separates the power and data components of the USB communication into respective components. The data component of the USB communication is communicated from the interface to the printer control and image generating circuitry 40, and the data component is used to provide print data, controls and feedback to the print mechanism 50. The power component of the USB communication is communicated from the interface 30 to power converter 60, which converts the power in the USB transmission to the requisite supply voltage for the printer control and image generating circuitry 40. Power that is not used for printing can instead be delivered via the power storage controller 70 to the power storage unit 80. For example, during non-printing periods or other periods of low power demand, the power storage unit 80 can be charged. The energy stored in the unit 80 can be supplied for printing as necessary, e.g., if the power required for a printing operation exceeds the power available from the power converter 60.

Further, the circuitry 40 (or other circuitry) can restrict the printing operation according to the power that is available from the power converter 60 and/or the power storage unit 80. For example, the circuitry 40 can continuously monitor the state of the power converter 60 and the power storage unit 80 to determine the total power available for a printing operation and limit the operation of the printer accordingly. Thus, e.g., if the total power available from the power converter 60 and the power storage unit 80 is insufficient for operating the print mechanism 50 above a particular determined speed, the circuitry 40 can limit the operation of the print mechanism 50 to a speed less than the particular determined speed. Similarly, other restrictions can be imposed on the printing operation according to the available power, such as a restriction on printing features. If the total power available from the power converter 60 and the power storage unit 80 is greater than the power required for the present operation of the printer, unrestricted operation of the printer can be enabled.

If the USB communication port 20 connected to the power and data interface 30 is a low voltage USB, such as a USB 1.1 or USB 2.0 connection that provides a maximum power of about 2.5 watts, the power received from the USB may be insufficient for continuously operating the printer. However, the power can be used to partially power the printing operation, i.e., by supplementing another power source. Also, energy received from the USB port 20 can be stored and delivered at a different time and/or power. In particular, if the power and data interface 30 receives a continuous supply of energy at a relatively low power from the USB port, the energy can be stored in the power storage unit 80 and delivered at a greater voltage and/or current during intermittent periods of printing. Thus, the power storage unit 80 can be configured to provide power to the print mechanism 50 at a power level that is greater than the maximum power level of the communication port 20. Therefore, the power from the USB port can be used for printing, even if the maximum power level of the USB port is a relatively low level, e.g., at about 2.5 watts or less, and the printer requires power at a higher level, e.g., above 2.5 watts (in some cases, above 5 watts or, in other cases, above 10 watts), during some periods of operation. While the power and data interface 30 receives power from a USB connection in the foregoing example, a powered Ethernet transmission line can instead be provided for powering the printer device 10.

In some cases, the printer can determine the power that will be required for performing certain printing operations and adjust the speed or other operational parameters of the printer accordingly. For example, the printer control and image generating circuitry 40 (or other circuitry of the printer) can determine the print density requirements according to the data component of the Ethernet or USB communication that is communicated from the interface 30 or according to the print data that is provided by the circuitry 40 in response to the data component of the Ethernet or USB communication. The print density requirements, which indicate the required density of the printing that is to be performed, can be determined by the number of dots or printhead elements that are to be activated per line and the darkness setting for an upcoming print operation. The print density requirements and the print speed are at least partially indicative of the power requirements for conducting a particular printing operation. That is, greater print density generally requires greater power, and faster printing speed generally requires greater power. Thus, the power required for a printing operation can be determined, at least in part, by evaluating the print density requirements and printing speed. In some cases, the printer control and image generating circuitry 40 (or other circuitry of the printer) can determine the print density requirements and, hence, the power required for upcoming print operations, and adjust the speed of the printer accordingly.

For example, if the power required for printing a subsequent line of print exceeds the power available from the power converter 60 and/or the power storage unit 80 (if present), the printer control and image generating circuitry 40 can reduce the speed of the print mechanism 50 so that the required power is less than or equal to than that available from the power converter 60 and/or the power storage unit 80. Similarly, if the power available from the power converter 60 and/or the power storage unit 80 exceeds the power required for printing a subsequent line at the current speed, the printer control and image generating circuitry 40 can increase the speed of the print mechanism 50 to a desired speed, which can be predetermined by the printer or input by a user, thereby reducing the total time for a printing operation. If the printer is already operating at the desired speed, the operation can be continued at the desired speed if there is sufficient power available for doing so. In this way, the required power for printing can be limited to the power that is available, and/or the speed or other operation of the printer can be optimized.

This optimization of the printing power, speed, and other aspects of the printer operation can be performed regardless of the power source for powering the printer. That is, the printer can be configured to operate on Ethernet or USB power, as described above. Alternatively, the printer can be configured to operate on other power, such as by using a conventional power adapter that is connected to a conventional AC electrical outlet. For example, as illustrated in the embodiment of FIG. 7, the printer device 10 includes a power converter 60 that is a conventional power adapter that receives power from a conventional power source, i.e., an AC electrical outlet. Data is received via a data interface 30 that is connected by a cable 22 (or other connection, such as a wireless connection) to a port 20 of a data transmission line or other connection. The power converter 60 can be configured to provide power directly to the print mechanism 50, and/or a battery charger 70, battery 80, and power converter 90 can be provided so that the output of the power converter 60 can be stored before use. In either case, the printer can be configured to adjust the speed or other operation of the printer so that the available power from the converter 60 is not exceeded. For example, a controller 120 can be provided for controlling the printing operation, or the printer control and image generating circuitry 40 can perform the control operation. In this respect, the controller 120 or circuitry 40 can periodically determine, or continuously monitor, the power required for an upcoming operation of the print mechanism 50, e.g., according to the print density requirements determined by a data communication that is communicated from the interface 30 or according to the print data that is provided by the circuitry 40 in response to the data communication. Based on the power required for performing the printing operation, the controller 120 or circuitry 40 can adjust a speed of the print mechanism 50 so that the required power of the print mechanism 50 does not exceed an amount of power available from the power converter 60. For example, the speed of the print mechanism can be increased if the required power is less than the amount of power available from the power converter 60 (and/or the battery 80) and decreased if the required power is greater than the amount of power available from the power converter 60 (and/or the battery 80).

Further, in some embodiments, the various components of the printer can be operated at distinct times such that the required operating power is less than the power available from the power converter 60 and/or the power storage unit 80 (if present). In this regard, FIG. 6 illustrates a printhead 110, such as the printhead of the print mechanism 50. The printhead 110 includes a number of printhead elements 112, which are selectively energized during a printing operation to print at various positions along the printhead 110. A relatively small number of printhead elements 112 is shown in FIG. 6 for illustrative clarity, though it is appreciated that any number of printhead elements can be provided, and the printhead elements can be disposed in other configurations, on one or more printheads. Multiple printhead strobe lines 114 a-114 f are provided for controlling the operation of the printhead elements 112. That is, the printhead strobe lines are configured to separately control the operation of different groups of printhead elements, some or all of which may be energized during each line or printing or other print cycle. In particular, the first strobe line 114 a controls a first group 112 a of the printhead elements, a second strobe line 114 b separately controls a second group 112 b of the printhead elements, and the other strobe lines 114 c-114 f separately control third, fourth, fifth, and sixth groups 112 c-112 f of the printhead elements. During an operation of the printhead 110, the energizing of the strobe lines and, hence, the operation of the printhead elements, can be controlled, e.g., by the printer control and image generating circuitry 40, the print mechanism 50, or another circuit. In any case, the strobe lines 114 a-114 f can be individually and separately energized so that the different groups of printhead elements print in a successively timed manner.

For example, the printer control and image generating circuit can be configured to selectively activate or energize groups of the printhead elements at different times. In this way, the number of printhead elements energized at any particular time can be limited, thereby also limiting the total power or current required for energizing the printhead elements. For example, in one embodiment, the current required for energizing all of the printhead elements at once can exceed 10 amps. By successively operating the printhead elements at different times, the required current can be reduced to less than 2 amps. The timing and number of strobe lines and printhead elements that are energized at one time can be optimized according to the power available. Thus, even if the power converter 60 (with or without the power storage unit 80) is not configured to provide a total power that is required for simultaneously powering all of the printhead elements, the power available from the power converter 60 (and/or the power storage unit 80) can be used to perform a printing operation by successively activating the different groups of elements at different times, so that the power required at any particular time for energizing the select groups is less than the total power.

In an alternate embodiment, the storage controller 70 and the power storage unit 80 may be excluded if the direct power from the Ethernet or USB power transmission is sufficient to support the requirements of the printing process. Typically, the storage controller and power storage units are optional if the printing device is limited to low speed print operations and printing of images having limited data. In such embodiments, the print mechanism can be in direct electrical communication with a power converter, eliminating the need to accumulate and store power for higher powered print processing.

The invention is also embodied in various methods for supplying Ethernet or USB power to a printing device. FIGS. 4 and 4A provide for a flow diagram of a method for providing Ethernet or USB power, respectively, to at least a portion of a printer device, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. At step 200, 200A, a powered Ethernet network signal or USB signal having a power component is received at a printer device. In the case of an Ethernet powered printer device (FIG. 4), the Ethernet signal typically is received at a powered Ethernet port that is compliant with IEEE 802.3af standards for communication of power over Ethernet. At optional step 210, 210A, the Ethernet network signal or USB signal is separated into data components and power components and at step 220, 220A, the power component of the Ethernet or USB signal is converted to a supply voltage. After the power component has been converted to supply voltage, the supply voltage, at step 230, 230A, is communicated to a printer control and image generating circuit to provide the requisite operating power for the circuit. The Ethernet or USB power that is supplied to the printer control and image generating circuit may be the only power supplied to the circuit or it may serve as back-up power supplied to the circuit if power from a conventional source fails.

The method may additionally include optional step 240, 240A, of communicating the supply voltage to a print mechanism and/or printhead to provide the requisite operating power for the print mechanism and/or the printhead. The Ethernet or USB power that is supplied to the print mechanism and/or printhead may be the only power supplied to the print mechanism or printhead or it may serve as back-up power supplied to the print mechanism or printhead if power from a conventional source fails. Typically, Ethernet or USB power provided to a print mechanism or printhead is accumulated and stored prior to being provided to the print mechanism. Accumulation and storage of the power is typically necessary because the direct power from the Ethernet or USB source is limited. However, in certain printing devices that support lower speed printer and/or the printing of images having minimal data direct power from the Ethernet or USB source may be sufficient to support powering of the print mechanism and printhead absent power accumulation and storage.

FIGS. 5 and 5A illustrate an alternate method for providing Ethernet or USB power, respectively, to at least a portion of a printer device, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. At step 300, 300A, a powered Ethernet network signal or USB signal having a power component is received at a printer device. In the case of an Ethernet powered printer device (FIG. 5), the Ethernet signal typically is received at a powered Ethernet port that is compliant with IEEE 802.3af standards for communication of power over Ethernet. At optional step 310, 310A, the Ethernet network signal or USB signal is separated into data components and power components and at step 320, 320A, the power component of the Ethernet or USB signal is converted to a supply voltage. At step 330, 330A, the supply voltage is communicated to a power storage controller and, at step 340, 340A, the supply voltage is stored at a power storage unit. In this regard, the power storage controller serves as a battery charger that manages the power supplied to power storage unit or battery unit.

At optional step 350, 350A, voltage from the power storage unit is converted to operating supply voltage for a print mechanism. Typically, conversion is required if the power storage unit voltage is not compatible with the operating voltage of the print mechanism. At step 360, 360A, operating power is provided to the print mechanism in the form of supply voltage stored at the power storage unit. The storage unit Ethernet or USB power that is supplied to the print mechanism may be the only power supplied to the print mechanism or it may serve as back-up power supplied to the print mechanism if power from a conventional power source fails.

Thus, the present invention provides Ethernet or USB powered printing devices. In particular, the present invention provides for Ethernet or USB powered printers and methods of powering printers via the Ethernet or USB. The methods and devices support high speed printing and/or data intensive printing. Such high-speed and/or data intensive printing operations are able to be Ethernet or USB powered by providing for a power storage unit within the printer device that is able to provide for necessary energy bursts to support such higher powered processes. In addition, the present invention provides for devices and methods that allow for printers to operate with primary power provided by conventional power mains and for back-up or secondary power to be supplied by Ethernet or USB power. Additionally, the invention provides for Ethernet or USB powering, both primary and back-up, of the data and configuration settings in the printer control and image generating electronics. In the back-up power mode, the Ethernet or USB power insures that data and configurations are not lost during periods of main power outage.

Many modifications and other embodiments of the inventions set forth herein will come to mind to one skilled in the art to which these inventions pertain having the benefit of the teachings presented in the foregoing descriptions and the associated drawings. Therefore, it is to be understood that the inventions are not to be limited to the specific embodiments disclosed and that modifications and other embodiments are intended to be included within the scope of the appended claims. Although specific terms are employed herein, they are used in a generic and descriptive sense only and not for purposes of limitation. 

What is claimed is:
 1. A printing device capable of obtaining power from a power storage unit, the printing device comprising: print elements configured to generate indicia on media, the print elements including a first group of the print elements and a second group of the print elements separately controllable from the first group of the print elements; a power converter configured to be coupled with a power storage unit, the power converter to supply an available amount of power from the power storage unit to the print elements; a controller configured to determine a required amount of power for an upcoming print operation that involves energizing the print elements; and a printer control and image generating circuit in communication with the power converter, the printer control and image generating circuit configured to: when the required amount of power is less than or equal to the available amount of power, performing the print operation by simultaneously energizing the first and second groups of the print elements; and when the required amount of power is greater than the available amount of power, performing the print operation by alternately energizing the first group of the print elements at first times and energizing the second group of the print elements at second times.
 2. A printing device as defined in claim 1, wherein the print elements are dots of a thermal printhead.
 3. A printing device as defined in claim 1, wherein the controller is configured to determine the required amount of power based on print density information associated with the print operation.
 4. A printing device as defined in claim 1, wherein the controller is configured to determine the required amount of power based on print speed information associated with the print operation.
 5. A print device as defined in claim 1, wherein power supplied to the print elements is limited to power being supplied by the power storage unit.
 6. A print device as defined in claim 1, wherein the power converter is to transform power storage potential to required voltages for a print mechanism including the print elements.
 7. A method for providing power to a printing device, the method comprising: providing power transmissions from a power storage unit to a power converter of the printing device, the power converter to supply an available amount of power to a print mechanism, the print mechanism having separately controllable print elements; determining, using a logic circuit, a required amount of power for an upcoming print operation that involves energizing the print elements, the print elements including a first group of the print elements and a second group of the print elements; when the required amount of power is less than or equal to the available amount of power, performing the print operation by simultaneously energizing the print elements; and when the required amount of power is greater than the available amount of power, performing the print operation by alternately energizing the first group of the print elements at first times and the second group of the print elements at second times different than the first times.
 8. A method as defined in claim 7, wherein the print elements are dots of a thermal printhead.
 9. A method as defined in claim 7, wherein the determining of the required amount of power is based on print density information associated with the print operation.
 10. A method as defined in claim 7, wherein the determining of the required amount of power is based on print speed information associated with the print operation.
 11. A method as defined in claim 7, wherein power supplied to the print elements is limited to power being supplied by the power storage unit.
 12. A method as defined in claim 7, further comprising transforming power storage potential to required voltages for the print mechanism.
 13. A controller in communication with a print mechanism having print elements, the controller comprising: memory including machine-readable instructions; and a processor to execute the instructions to cause a printing device to: determine a required amount of power for an upcoming print operation that involves energizing the print elements, the print elements including a first group of the print elements and a second group of the print elements; determine an available amount of power from a power storage unit; when the required amount of power is less than or equal to the available amount of power, cause the print mechanism to perform the print operation by simultaneously energizing the print elements; and when the required amount of power is greater than the available amount of power, cause the print mechanism to perform the print operation by alternately energizing the first group of the print elements at first times and the second group of the print elements at second times different than the first times.
 14. A controller as defined in claim 13, wherein the print elements are dots of a thermal printhead.
 15. A controller as defined in claim 13, wherein the processor is to execute the instructions to cause the printing device to determine the required amount of power based on print density information associated with the print operation.
 16. A controller as defined in claim 13, wherein the processor is to execute the instructions to cause the printing device to determine the required amount of power based on print speed information associated with the print operation.
 17. A controller as defined in claim 13, wherein power supplied to the print elements is limited to power being supplied by the power storage unit. 